Gerald Richard Steffen

Gerald Richard Steffen

CAHNRS COMMUNICATION

I began my WSU career in 1995 as a part time adjunct faculty member in the department of Fine Art and worked simultaneously as an hourly employee in the Cooperative Extension Information Department. Eager to transition to a full-time career, an opportunity presented itself in the Information Department and I was hired in a full-time, but temporary, position as a graphic designer. The following year, a permanent graphic designer position opened up and I was hired. The rest they say, is history.

During my career, I’ve transitioned from a graphic designer (specializing in publication design), to the college’s lead designer (specializing in everything), and currently act as Creative Manager where I lead a small but highly talented team. Looking back, a lot has changed over the years, especially with technology, but the best thing about work is the people. While there have been a few that were “interesting” (and later became good stories), I have had the great fortune to work with some wonderful people who were more like family than colleagues. That should come as no surprise since working at WSU also makes one a part of the Cougar family. The Cougar family values resilience, hard work and a commitment to excellence. It is these things that have kept me going, and in place, for 25 years. Overall, I am proud to have contributed to the success of the college and the university, in my small way, and look forward to what the next 10 years will bring! Go Cougs!